NMSU basketball player charged in beating case

Tyrone P. Watson was suspended from the New Mexico State team after the alleged beating last month.

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LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) -- A suspended New Mexico State University basketball player has been arrested for assault.

Las Cruces police announced Wednesday that 22-year-old Tyrone P. Watson was charged with a third-degree felony count of aggravated battery causing great bodily harm.

Police say Watson beat a 19-year-old man, who was treated for facial fractures, a gash requiring 13 stitches and other cuts and bruises after the brawl at a party last month. Witnesses say Watson grabbed the man and punched him in the face because he was dancing with Watson's girlfriend.

He was later suspended from the team for allegedly violating rules on conduct.

Police say Watson was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center with bond set at $5,000.

It was unclear if Watson has an attorney.

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